Making Sure That Your Puppy Gets Enough Sleep
Puppies are well-known for having endless amounts of energy. Even though this is true, they still need 18-20 hours of sleep a day. Getting enough sleep is critical for them to grow properly, and to make sure that their brain, immune system, and muscles all develop as they should.
When puppies are awake, they use up a lot of energy growing, becoming acquainted to new people and places, and discovering all the things that they are and are not allowed to do. Because their environment is such an interesting place to exist in, they might not pay attention to their bodies telling them it is time for them to take a nap. As their owner, you can assist by following these few special tips.
How to Help Your Puppy Sleep During the Day
The first and perhaps hardest thing you can do is resist the urge to cuddle him and let him rely on you to fall asleep. Making him dependent on you in this way isn’t helpful. Instead, everyone in the house should understand that your puppy should be left alone when he is sleeping.
Along the same lines, if your puppy seems ready to take a nap, show him where he should sleep. Ideally, it should be a crate, a dog bed, or simply a quiet area of your home where he can sleep and not be disturbed.
Plan his naptime after you have enjoyed taking him for a walk or playing with him. Following a schedule of napping every hour or so will make sure your puppy isn’t getting overly tired. When your puppy gets too exhausted, this can lead to bad behavior. Guiding him to lay down in his crate when he appears tired will prevent this from happening.
How to Help Your Puppy Sleep at Night
Instead of forking out big money for a fancy dog bed that your puppy is likely to chew up, the AKC recommends lining a simple wire dog crate with a soft, comfortable blanket or two. Placing the crate in a room where you sleep will help your puppy feel safe at night.
In order to help your puppy wind down for the night, it is a good idea to create a bedtime routine for him. This might include playing, cuddling, and taking him outside to pee. It is also important to keep the room dark and quiet for him. Covering his wire crate with a blanket may help. The darkness lets your puppy know that it’s time for sleep.
When your puppy goes into his crate, be sure to give him a treat. Be prepared to hear a little it of barking or whining, but avoid giving in and letting him out at bedtime. Your puppy may not be ready to sleep through the night, so be prepared. He may need to relieve himself at some point during the night. Be ready to take him out if need be. After you take him outside, gently place him back in his crate for the remainder of the night.
Making sure that your puppy gets enough sleep will make for a happier, well-adjusted dog.